Gracie-May Fuller has boarded the plane for America
LITTLE Gracie-May Fuller flew out to America this afternoon (Wednesday) for life-changing surgery which could eventually enable her to walk.
Three-year-old Gracie-May is due to undergo the operation on Tuesday
Speaking from Heathrow, mum, Mandy, told the County Press: "I am feeling a bit scared, a bit nervous. I can’t believe it’s come around so quickly."
Gracie-May can only crawl using her arms but the surgery, which is only available in the US, could relieve the spasms in her legs and eventually enable her to walk, fulfilling her dream.
Mandy said: "Once Gracie comes out of the operation we should know whether it’s been successful straightaway and from then on it’s up to us to work her hard and help her get stronger."
The family, who live in Shankin, needed £40,000 to cover the costs of the treatment and flights, which led to an Island-wide fundraising drive.
The final £1,500 was donated live on Isle of Wight Radio.
Mandy said donations were still coming in and will fund the post-operation physiotherapy that Gracie will need to build up the strength in her legs. Only part of this can be funded by the NHS.
Reporter: martinn@iwcpmail.co.uk